Photo:www.fmprc.gov.cn

Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi visited Turkmenistan and had exchanges with the deputy prime minister of Turkmenistan over the situation in Afghanistan. Both sides agreed on forging a long-term strategic partnership in the energy field.

China regards Turkmenistan as a truly reliable strategic partner. China-Turkmenistan relations have always maintained a good momentum of development, Wang said as he held talks with Turkmen Deputy Prime Minister Rashid Meredov on Monday, according to a notice posted on the website of China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs. 

Wang noted that China will firmly support Turkmenistan in taking a development path that suits its national conditions, in pursuing a policy of permanent neutrality, and in taking measures for the sake of safeguarding its sovereignty, security, and development interests. 

Taking the chance to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations, China is willing to further deepen political mutual trust and expand all-round cooperation with Turkmenistan, Wang said, adding that on major international and regional issues, the two countries will strengthen coordination and cooperation and transform the high-level cooperation into tangible results that benefit both countries.

Wang and Meredov exchanged views on the situation in Afghanistan, yet no further detail was given by the ministry's notice.

Meredov said Turkmenistan hold the same or similar positions with China on major international and regional issues. Turkmenistan firmly supports China in improving the "one country, two systems," resolutely opposes other countries' interference in China's internal affairs and opposes politicization of the virus traceability.

In addition, the two agreed on negotiating and signing documents for the joint construction of the "Belt and Road" as soon as possible, and formulating plans for the next five years for expanding economic cooperation. 

China and Turkmenistan will also cooperate in the fields of oil and gas processing, new energy, green energy, and nuclear energy, forging a long-term strategic partnership in the energy field, Wang noted. 

Global Times